Image reading device and image processing method utilizing the same

ABSTRACT

There is disclosed an image processing apparatus provided with a reader for reading an original image, a connection unit for connection with a network to which plural computers are connected, and a transfer units for transferring the image data, read by the reader, to a computer through the connection unit, the apparatus comprises a specifying unit for specifying desired one among the computers connected through the connection unit, and a designation unit for designating image reading by the reader, wherein the transfer unit is adapted to transfer the image data, read by the reader in response to the designation by the designation unit, to a computer specified by the specifying unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to an image reading device forreading an image and sending image data to an externally connected hostcomputer or the like, and an image processing method utilizing suchdevice.

[0003] 2. Related Background Art

[0004] The conventional image reading device (image scanner) for sendingthe read image to the computer is usually connected to a single computerand operates according instructions therefrom. Also the image readingdevice itself is positioned close to the computer. This is because theSCSI (small computer system interface) usually employed for connectingthe computer and the image reading device cannot utilize a very longcable, and also because cumbersome operations are required, such asvisiting the both plural times, if they are physically distant, as theoriginal document has to be set on the image reading device while theoperation thereof has to be made on the computer.

[0005] Such conventional configuration is extremely inconvenient in caseplural users wish to use the computer connected to the image readingdevice. The image reading cannot be executed if the computer is used foranother job, and the computer cannot be used for other jobs if thepriority is given to the image reading. As a result, the computerbecomes inevitably assigned exclusively to the image reading device, andit is therefore difficult for the plural users to simultaneously use thecomputer connected to such image reading device. Also additional worksare required for transferring the image, taken into such computer, toother computers belonging to such users.

[0006] It is also conceivable to connect the image reading device andthe computer by means of a network such as Ethernet, and suchconfiguration allows to effect the image reading operation by thecomputer connected to the network or another available computer. On theother hand, the significantly large physical distance between the two,resulting from such network connection, results in anotherinconvenience. As an example, in case of using an image reading device,located on the fifth floor of a building, from a computer located on thesecond floor, it is quite difficult to smoothly and promptly effect thesetting of the original document on the image reading device and theoperation on the computer. More specifically there are requiredcumbersome operations of at first setting the original on the imagereading device on the fifth floor, then operating the computer on thesecond floor, and returning to the fifth floor for fetching the originalafter image reading.

[0007] Such drawback becomes more serious in case the image readingdevice is realized as an additional function of a copying apparatus. Forexample, in case such device is frequently used for local documentcopying in the copying apparatus, if the original is left unremoved fora long time, there may be hindered the user of the apparatus for copyingduring such time or the original may be undesirably removed by anotherperson utilizing the copying apparatus.

[0008] In this manner, the conventional image reading device, notdesigned in consideration of the operation characteristics in case ofeffecting the image reading operation and the image data outputoperation etc. respectively in physically distant locations, requirescumbersome operations when the image reading device is connected withthe computer through the network.

[0009] Also the functions of the image reading device cannot be fullyexploited by the external computer or by the image reading deviceitself, since the convenience of use of other additional functions suchas the copying function has not been considered.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide an image readingdevice not associated with the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an imagereading device capable of transferring read image data to a desiredcomputer, by an instruction made on the image reading device.

[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide animage reading device capable, in case transferring the read image datato an external computer, of preventing prolonged occupation thereof.

[0013] Still another object of the present invention is to provide animage reading device with improved operation characteristics.

[0014] Still another object of the present invention is to provide animage reading device enabling effective utilization of the functionsthereof.

[0015] Still other objects of the present invention, and the featuresthereof, will become fully apparent from the following detaileddescription, which is to be taken in conjunction with the attacheddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016]FIG. 1 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of a copyingapparatus constituting a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 2 is a view showing a network connection in theabove-mentioned embodiment;

[0018]FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the copying apparatus of the firstembodiment;

[0019]FIG. 4 is an external view of an operation unit and a digitizer infirst, second and third embodiments;

[0020]FIG. 5 is a view showing the shift of display on a display unit 22in a reading operation in the first, second and third embodiments of thepresent invention;

[0021]FIG. 6 is a view showing the shift of display on a display panel,in a copy area designating operation in a copying process in the first,second and third embodiments;

[0022]FIG. 7 is a detailed block diagram of an image process unit 14 inthe first, second and third embodiments;

[0023]FIG. 8 is a view showing packet communication with a computer inthe first, second and third embodiments;

[0024]FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a copying apparatus in the secondembodiment of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of thecopying apparatus of the second embodiment;

[0026]FIG. 11 is a flow chart of a transmission task and a receptiontask in the copying apparatus of the second embodiment;

[0027]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a copying apparatus and imageprocessing apparatus, constituting an image reading system of the thirdembodiment of the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 13 is a view showing the shift of display on a display unit22 in a reading operation in the third embodiment;

[0029]FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of a copyingapparatus of the third embodiment;

[0030]FIG. 15 is a flow chart of a transmission task and a receptiontask in the copying apparatus of the third embodiment;

[0031]FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram of a facsimile apparatusconstituting a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 17 is a view showing an example of network connection of thefacsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 16;

[0033]FIG. 18 is a view showing the content of information stored in aLAN information memory 127 of the facsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 16;

[0034]FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing a reading process of an originalimage in the fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0035]FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing an acquiring process of userinformation in the fourth embodiment;

[0036]FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing another example of the readingprocess of the original image and the acquiring process of userinformation in the fourth embodiment;

[0037]FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing still another example of thereading process of the original image and the acquiring process of userinformation in the fourth embodiment;

[0038]FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the control process for renewinguser information in the LAN information memory 127 in the facsimileapparatus 201, by a user information management processor in the server202 in the fourth embodiment;

[0039]FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a copyingapparatus constituting a fifth embodiment of the present embodiment;

[0040]FIG. 25 is a view showing an example of connection of the copyingapparatus 300 shown in FIG. 24;

[0041]FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of thecopying apparatus 300 of the fifth embodiment;

[0042]FIG. 27 is a view showing a display image for selecting thecontents of process of the fifth embodiment;

[0043]FIGS. 28 and 29 are flow charts showing a print process by amaster mode of the copying apparatus 300 of the fifth embodiment;

[0044]FIG. 30 is a view showing a display image for selecting computersin the fifth embodiment;

[0045]FIG. 31 is a view showing a display image for selecting files inthe fifth embodiment;

[0046]FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing a file transfer process in thecomputer in the fifth embodiment;

[0047]FIG. 33 is a flow chart showing an original image reading processin the master mode of the copying apparatus 300 in the fifth embodiment;

[0048]FIG. 34 is a view showing a display image in an original imagereading process in the fifth embodiment;

[0049]FIG. 35 is a view showing a display image at computer control inthe copying apparatus 300 of the fifth embodiment;

[0050]FIG. 36 is a view showing the configuration of an interfaceprogram of the computer with the copying apparatus 300 in the fifthembodiment;

[0051]FIG. 37 is a flow chart showing a selection process of thecomputer in the master mode of the copying apparatus 300 in the fifthembodiment; and

[0052]FIG. 38 is an external view of an operation unit of the copyingapparatus 300 of the fifth embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0053] Now the present invention will be clarified in detail bypreferred embodiments thereof shown in the attached drawings.

[0054] [First Embodiment]

[0055] At first there will be explained a first embodiment of thepresent invention.

[0056]FIG. 2 is a view showing the entire configuration of an imagereading system constituting a first embodiment of the present invention.A copying apparatus 1 is a composite machine provided, in addition tothe known function of reading and printing the original image, with aremote scanner function of transmitting the read image to the exteriorand a printer function of printing the image received from the exterior.The copying apparatus 1 is connected with other computers with a network3. In the present embodiment, the network 3 is composed of an Ethernet.However, there may be employed other networks as long as pluralcomputers can be connected by such networks. In addition to the copyingapparatus 1, plural computers 2A to 2E are connected to the network 3.Such network 3 is a local area network used for mutually connectingcomputers on a floor or in a building, for example the computers on thefourth floor of a building, shown in the upper half of FIG. 2 and thoseon the third floor of this building, shown in the lower half.

[0057] In such network connection, each equipment on the network has anID number or a system name, by which the equipment can be distinguishedfrom others. In the present embodiment, for the purpose of simplicity ofexplanation, each equipment is identified by a system name. For examplethe computer 2A has a system name A, and the computer 2B has a systemname B.

[0058] In case the copying apparatus 1 is used as a local copyingmachine, the operator brings the original to the copying apparatus 1,then executes the copying operation thereon and returns with theoriginal and the obtained copy. In case the copying apparatus 1 is usedas a remote printer, the operator sends the print data to the copyingapparatus 1 from his own computer through the network 3, and visits thecopying apparatus 1 to take the obtained print. In case the copyingapparatus 1 is used as a remote scanner, the operator brings theoriginal to the copying apparatus 1, then reads and sends the originalimage to the computer of the operator by means of the operation unit ofthe copying apparatus 1, then returns with the original and utilizes theimage data on his computer.

[0059]FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the copying apparatus 1 in the firstembodiment of the present invention. In case the copying apparatus 1 isused as a local copying machine, the original placed on an unrepresentedoriginal table is scanned with a scanner unit 12 to obtain electricalsignals, which are transmitted through a selector 13, subjected tovarious digital image processes in an image process unit 14 andsubjected to image formation in a printer unit 15.

[0060] In case the copying apparatus 1 is used as a printer, image datasupplied for example from the computer 2A are transmitted through anexternal communication circuit 4 and a CPU bus 8 and are developed intoa raster image in an image memory 9, under the control of a control unit5. Then the printer unit 15 is activated, and the image data read fromthe image memory 9 are supplied through the selector 13 and the imageprocess unit 14 to the printer unit 15 for image formation.

[0061] In case the copying apparatus 1 is used as a remote scanner, theoriginal placed on the unrepresented original table is scanned with thescanner unit 12 to obtain electrical signals, which are transmittedthrough the selector 13, and subjected to various digital imageprocesses in the image process unit 14, and thus processed image data 16are stored as a raster image in the image memory 9. Then the image data,read from the image memory 9, are supplied through the CPU 8 and theexternal communication circuit 4 and transmitted for example to thecomputer 2A under the control of the control unit 5.

[0062] An address generation unit 10 generates, based on unrepresentedimage synchronization signals, addresses for the image memory 9 forreading of the image data 11 at the printing operation and for writingthe image data 16 at the reading operation.

[0063] An operation unit 6 is used by the operator for various operationas will be explained later. A digitizer 17 is provided for designatingan area on the original, as will be explained later.

[0064]FIG. 4 is an external view of the operation unit 6 and thedigitizer 17 of the image reading apparatus of the present embodiment.This drawing also represents a plan view of the scanner unit of thecopying apparatus 1, with an original pressure plate in the closedstate. The operation unit 6 is provided in front, and the digitizer 17is provided on the original pressure plate. The operation unit 6 isprovided with a large-sized liquid crystal display unit 22, numeral keys23, a copy start key 24, and function keys 21 including a scan key andan area designation key. The liquid crystal display unit 22, capable ofdisplaying arbitrary characters, displays various messages for achievinginteractive operations.

[0065] The digitizer 17, often utilized in the digital copying machines,is used for designating an area. For the area designation, an originalis placed with its image-bearing face upwards on an original placingarea 25, with the upper right corner of the original impinging on areference position, and two diagonal points of a desired rectangulararea 27 are designated with a pen 26. Inside the original placing area25 there is provided a circuit (not shown) for detecting the position ofthe designating pen, and the information of the designated area can beobtained from the detected coordinates. FIG. 4 shows a closed state ofthe original pressure plate. In the actual original reading operation,this pressure plate is opened, and the original is placed with its facedownwards, and with its upper left corner impinging on a referenceposition.

[0066]FIG. 5 shows the messages displayed according to the process onthe liquid crystal display unit 22 of the operation unit 6, when thecopying apparatus 1 is used as a remote scanner. At first, when a scankey is depressed among the function keys 21 of the operation unit 6,there is displayed an image frame 31, requesting the designation of anarea to be read on the original with the digitizer 17. Though notillustrated in FIG. 5, it is also possible to read the entire area ofthe original table or to read fixed size such as A4 or A3, withoutrelying on the digitizer 17.

[0067] Then an image frame 32 requests the designation of an image typeto be read. In the present embodiment, there can be selected three imagetypes, namely an RGB type representing a full-color image, ablack-and-white multi-value type in which each pixel is represented by 8bits between black and white, and a black-and-white binary type in whicheach pixel is represented by one bit, i.e. black or white. These imagetypes can be selected by the numeral keys 23 on the operation unit 6.

[0068] In a next image frame 33, selection is made on the format to beused in the transfer of the read image data to a computer. In the imageframe 33, the RAW DATA means transfer of the read original data, withoutaddition of header etc. TIFF (tag image file format) and PICT areformats already well known in the computer technology, containing theinformation of the image size etc. in the header. JPEG COMPRESSION meansdata transfer to the computer after the JPEG compression, which isalready known as a standard compression method. UNIT COMPRESSION meansdata transfer to the computer after the UNIX compression, which is alsoknown as a standard compression method. There may also be employed otherknown image formats. In this manner the image frame 33 requestsselection of one of various formats.

[0069] In a next image frame 34, the image resolution is designated. Thescanner unit of the present embodiment is provided with an array ofplural reading elements arranged as to read the image with a resolutionof 400 dpi. On the image frame 34 there can be selected a resolution notexceeding 400 dpi. A resolution lower than 400 dpi can be realized byskipping the image read with 400 dpi. The resolution is entered by thenumeral keys 23 and fixed by an unrepresented OK key. On this imageframe, there is also displayed the image size, which is represented bythe vertical size, the horizontal size and the total size of the image.These sizes vary according to the area size designated on the imageframe 31, the image type designated on the image frame 32, and the fileformat designated on the image frame 33. The illustrated image frame 34indicates that an area of 1024×1024 pixels read in the RGB type with aresolution of 72 dpi and transferred in the raw data format requires adata capacity of 3 Mbytes (1024×1024×3). A high resolution provides animage of a higher resolution but increases the image size, leading to alarger disk capacity for data storage and a longer data transfer time.

[0070] On a next image frame 35, there is selected a computer as thedestination of the read image data. On this image frame, selection ismade among the listed computers 1 to 4 registered in advance. Forexample, “1:A” corresponds to the computer A in FIG. 2. In theillustrated example, there are displayed actual system names, but it isalso possible to display contracted names if the actual system names aretoo long, or to display other names different from the actual systemnames. Though the image frame 35 only shows four computers in the list,it is also possible to display a larger number of computers by scrollingor by page switching.

[0071] Upon selecting “5: LIST DISPLAY” on the image frame 35, there isdisplayed an image frame 36 showing the list of equipment currentlyconnected to the network, and a computer is selected in the list, as thedestination of the read image. In the network protocol, there isprovided a mechanism for inquiring the connected equipment, and theequipment connected to the network 3 are investigated by such mechanism.It is also possible to investigate the equipment connected to thenetwork 3, by monitoring the sources and the destinations of the dataflowing on the network 3.

[0072] When one of the computers A to D is selected, the display shiftsto an image frame 37, requesting the designation of a directory forimage storage within the destination computer. The image frame 37 atfirst displays a default directory as the current directory (for exampleA1). Storage is selected if such directory is acceptable. If anotherdirectory is desired, the selection is moved to desired one among thedisplayed list of subdirectories. After the movement the display returnsto the image frame 37, on which the storage is selected.

[0073] A next image frame 38, displaying the file name for data storage,requests the last instruction whether or not to execute the imagereading. When the operator places the original on the unrepresentedoriginal table and selects the reading, the image reading operation isinitiated and the image data of the designated area, file format, imagesize and resolution are transferred to the designated directory of thedesignated computer, and then the display returns to the standard imageframe. In the present embodiment, the file name is automaticallygenerated and consists of a prefix “IMG”, followed by a serial numberindicating the order of image reading, and “.raw” indicating that thefile format is raw data.

[0074]FIG. 6 shows the message displayed on the liquid crystal displayunit 22 of the operation unit 6, for copying area designation prior tothe copying operation, in case the copying apparatus 1 is used as thelocal copying machine. After depression of an area designation keywithin the function keys 21 on the operation unit 6, there is displayedthe image frame 39 on which an area is designated on the original withthe digitizer 17. Then, on an image frame 40, there is selected a modeof the image processing to be applied to the image within the designatedarea. Trimming means a mode of copying the image of the designated areaonly. MASKING means a mode of copying the image except for thedesignated area. NEGATIVE/POSITIVE INVERSION means a mode of imageformation with negative/positive inversion of the image in thedesignated area. After such designation, there is conducted anotherdesignation such as of the copy number with the numeral keys, and thecopy start key 24 is depressed to initiate the copying operation withthe designated mode. As explained in the foregoing, the operation unit6, the liquid crystal display unit 22 and the numeral keys 23 thereinare also used for the mode designation for the reading operation and thestart of the reading operation in the use as the remote scanner, andalso for the mode designation and the start of copying operation in theuse as the local copying machine. Besides the digitizer 17 is used forarea designation in the reading operation in the use as the remotescanner and also for that in the copying operation in the use as thelocal copying machine. In this manner the configuration of the apparatuscan be simplified.

[0075]FIG. 7 is a detailed block diagram of the image process unit 14.Image data 19 transferred from the scanner unit 12 or the image memory 9are at first subjected to a smoothing process in a smoothing circuit 41.This process reduces the image frequency in order to avoid moireefringes in case of an image reduction in an enlargement/reductioncircuit 42 to be explained later, and is only applied in case of theimage reduction. Then the enlargement/reduction circuit 42 enlarges orreduces the image size, or does not change the image size. A nextnegative/positive inversion circuit 44 effects data inversion in case ofnegative/positive inversion, but the data are simply passed in case suchinversion is not required. A control register 43 retains the parametersfor the smoothing circuit 41 and the enlargement/reduction circuit 42,and parameters indicating whether or not to effect smoothing, rate ofenlargement or reduction and whether or not to effect negative/positiveinversion are set therein by the control unit 5 through the CPU bus 8.The image process unit is used for the image processing of the readimage data in the use as the remote scanner, and also for the imageprocessing of the read image data in the use as the local copyingmachine. For example, in case of image reading with 400 dpi as, theremote scanner, the image data are simply passed by the circuits in theimage process unit 14. On the other hand, if the reading resolution isless than 400 dpi, the image data are subjected to the smoothing in thesmoothing circuit 41, then passed by the negative/positive inversioncircuit, and are subjected to a reduction process to the designatedresolution by the enlargement/reduction circuit 42. In the local copyingoperation, in case of equal-size copying, the data are passed by thesmoothing circuit 41 and the enlargement/reduction circuit 42. On theother hand, in case of a reduction copying, the data are subjected tothe smoothing process in the smoothing circuit 41 and then to thereduction process in the enlargement/reduction circuit 42. In case of anenlarged copying, the data are passed by the smoothing circuit 41 andsubjected to an enlargement process in the enlargement/reduction circuit42. In the copying operation, the negative/positive inversion circuit 44is so set as to effect the negative/positive inversion only when thenegative/positive inverted copying is instructed. For the purpose ofsimplicity, FIG. 7 only shows simple image processing, but other imageprocessing circuits such as a color conversion circuit, can also be usedin common in the reading operation for the local copying and in the useas the remote scanner.

[0076] In the following there will be explained the data flow on thenetwork 3, with reference to FIG. 8.

[0077] In FIG. 8, A to E correspond to the computers shown in FIG. 2,and S corresponds to the copying apparatus 1. Also “No. 1” etc. indicatepacket numbers.

[0078] Though simplified in FIG. 8 for the purpose of clarity, the dataexchange on the network 3 is conducted in the unit of a packet. Largedata are transmitted after division into plural packets, which arereconstructed in the receiving side. Also plural transmission areexecuted in parallel manner, on timeshared basis. The time sharing isexecuted in the unit of a packet. For example, in FIG. 8, at first afirst packet of the scan data is transferred from the copying apparatus1 to the computer A in 51A. Then, in 51B, another packet is transferredfrom the computer B to C. In 51C, a second packet of the scan data istransferred from the copying apparatus 1 to the computer A. Similarlyother packets are transferred in 51D and 51E, and a third packet of thescan data is transferred from the copying apparatus 1 to the computer Ain 51F. In this manner plural transmissions are executed in apparentlyparallel manner. Such operating mode allows to prevent the network 3from being occupied by a particular communication.

[0079]FIG. 8 does not show the case of collision of plural transmissionsfor the purpose of simplicity, but the ordinary network protocol has amethod for copying with such situation.

[0080] Though not shown in FIG. 8, each packet contains information onthe transmitting source, the destination and the ordinal number of thepacket.

[0081]FIG. 1 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of the copyingapparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention. After thepower supply is turned on, a step S11 discriminates whether a keyrelating to the local copying has been depressed on the operation unit6. If depressed, a step S12 further discriminates whether the depressedkey is an area designation, a parameter key such as numeral keys 23, ora copy start key, and the sequence branches to a step S13, S14 or S15according to the result of discrimination. If the area designation keyis depressed, the sequence proceeds to a step S13 to effect areadesignation for local copying and designation of the process in thedesignated area according to a flow explained in FIG. 6, and thesequence then returns to the step S11. On the other hand, if a parameterkey such as the numeral keys 23 is depressed, the sequence proceeds to astep S14 to execute a process corresponding to the depressed key, andthe sequence then returns to the step S1. For example, if the numeralkeys 23 are depressed in a standard state of the local copying mode,such key depressions are regarded as an instruction for the number ofcopies, according to which the copy number is renewed. Also in case thecopy start key is depressed, the sequence proceeds to a step S15 toeffect a local copying operation with the area designation and theparameters set in this state.

[0082] On the other hand, if the step S11 identifies that the keysrelating to local copying have not been depressed on the operation unit6, a step S16 discriminates whether a scan start key has been depressed.If not the sequence returns to the step S11, but, if depressed, there isexecuted a reading operation of steps S17 to S20 in the use as theremote scanner, according to the flow shown in FIG. 5. At first a stepS17 effects designation of the area to be read, by means of thedigitizer 17. Then a step S18 effects input of parameters of the imagetype, file format, resolution, image size etc. as explained in the imageframes 32 to 34 in FIG. 5. Then, a step S19 designates the designationcomputer to which the read image data are to be transferred and thedirectory therein, as explained in the image frames 35 to 37 in FIG. 5.Then a step S20 instructs the start of reading operation in an imageframe 38 in FIG. 5 and reads and stores the image of the original on theoriginal table into the image memory 9. In this operation a parameter isset, according to the resolution designated in the image frame 34 inFIG. 5, in the enlargement/reduction circuit of the image process unit14, then the image reduction is executed by a hardware and the imagewith the converted resolution is stored in the image memory 9. Then astep S21 reads the image data from the image memory 9 and transfers theimage data to the directory of the computer designated in the imageframes 35 to 37 in FIG. 5, and the sequence then returns to the stepS11.

[0083] The image data are divided into plural packets as shown in FIG.8, and are transmitted in discontinuous manner in the unit of a packet.In the reading of the image data from the image memory 9 andtransmission to the destination computer, the data are converted by apredetermined software so as to obtain the designated area, image typeand file format.

[0084] As the image memory 9 is so constructed as to store the imagedata of the maximum original size, the transmission of a designated areais achieved by reading the image data of a necessary area only.

[0085] The image memory 9 stores the RGB data. Therefore, if the imagetype is RGB type, the image data are not particularly processed, but, incase of black-and-white multi-value image type, the image data areconverted according to an equation W=(R+G+B)/3. In case of theblack-and-white binary image type, thus converted data are furtherbinarized.

[0086] Also in case of the raw data file format, the image data are notparticularly processed but, in case of the TIFF or FICT file format, theheader information is added according to each format. Also in case ofthe JPEG or UNIX compression, the image data are compressed according torespective compression method and the compressed data area transferredto the destination number.

[0087] The present embodiment allows to effect various operationsrelating to the copying apparatus 1 collectively in the copyingapparatus 1 thereby reducing the frequency of the visits of the operatorto the distant computers. Consequently various operations can be madesmoother and easier.

[0088] [Second Embodiment]

[0089] In the following there will be explained a second embodiment ofthe present invention, with reference to FIGS. 9, 10 and 11.

[0090] The copying apparatus of the second embodiment of the presentinvention is different from the first embodiment in the area designatingmeans and the method of transferring the image to the computer.Therefore the present embodiment will be explained in the following withemphasis on such differences, with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10respectively instead of FIGS. 1 and 3 showing the first embodiment andfurther to FIG. 11.

[0091]FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a copying apparatus 1 constituting asecond embodiment of the present invention. It is firstly different fromthe first embodiment in that the area designating means is composed ofan image display unit 61 and a mouse 62, instead of the digitizer 17. Inthe present embodiment, in the area designation in the process shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, the process of area designation on the original placed onthe digitizer 17 is replaced by a process of placing the original in theordinary original reading position and depressing a preview key (notshown) on the operation unit 6, whereby the image read by the scannerunit 12 is stored in the image memory 9 through a path same as in thereading operation in the first embodiment. Then the data in the imagememory 9 are moved to and displayed on the image display unit 61 underthe control of the control unit 5. Subsequently the operator designatesan area on the image with the mouse 62, while watching the displayedimage. Such image display and area designation thereon are already wellknown in the technology of personal computer and will not, therefore, beexplained in detail.

[0092] A second difference from the first embodiment lies in a factthat, in contrast to the first embodiment where the image data aredirectly transferred form the image memory 9 to the external equipment,the present embodiment is provided with a hard disk 7 and the image dataare once moved from the image memory 9 to the hard disk 7 and thentransferred therefrom to the external computer. Such configurationadditionally requires the hard disk 7 and the data transfer timethereto, but brings about an advantage that the image memory 9 can beused for other purposes after the data transfer to the hard disk 7, sothat the occupied time of the image memory 9 can be reduced. In thepresent embodiment, the image memory 9 is composed of dynamic RAM(DRAM). On the other hand, the hard disk is non-volatile and has a largecapacity, so that the cost per byte is lower. In general, the hard diskis not adequate for use as the image memory, because of the lower accessspeed. On the other hand, the DRAM is suitable for use as the imagememory, because of the higher access speed, but is disadvantageous inthe volatility that the stored content is lost when the power supply iscut off, and is a higher cost per byte. For these reasons, the volatileDRAM is used for the image memory requiring high speed and non-volatilehard disk is used for storing the data obtained by image reading andthose for printing. However the image memory 9 may be composed of ahigh-speed non-volatile memory if such memory becomes available in thefuture.

[0093]FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the main control sequence of thepresent embodiment. At first a step S31 discriminates whether areception list for the remote printer is empty. The reception list forthe remote printer holds the print request in case print data aretransferred from the computer, and a non-empty list means that anunprocessed print request from the computer still remains.

[0094] The data to be printed are stored in the hard disk 7 as will beexplained later. If the step S31 identifies a non-empty state of thereception list, a step S32 transfers the print data from the hard disk 7to the image memory 9 and a step S33 executes a printing operation. Thena step S34 deletes the print request, for which the printing operationhas been completed, from the reception list and also deletes the printdata on the hard disk 7.

[0095] On the other hand, if the step S31 identifies an empty state ofthe reception list, the sequence proceeds to a step S35 to discriminatewhether the scan start key or the copy start key in the operation unit 6has been depressed, and, if not, the sequence returns to the step S31.If the copy start key has been depressed, a step S36 executes a localcopying operation as in the first embodiment. Though not shown in FIG.10, the area designation and the input of parameters for the copyingoperation are also conducted as in the first embodiment, with theoperation unit 6 or with the image display unit 61 and the mouse 62. Onthe other hand, if the step S35 identifies the depression of the scankey, the steps S37 to S40 are executed according to the process shown inFIG. 5, as in the first embodiment. The area designation in the step S37is executed with the image display unit 61 and the mouse 62, instead ofthe digitizer 17. The steps S38 to S40 are same as the steps S18 to S20of the first embodiment, shown in FIG. 1. A step S41.reads the imagedata from the image memory 9 and stores the image data in the hard disk7, instead of the transmission to the computer. Then the name of thedestination is registered in a transmission list, which holds theinformation of the untransmitted scan data, as will be explained later.After the data transfer to the hard disk 7, the sequence returns to thestep S31.

[0096] Also in this embodiment, the conversion of the resolution isconducted, as in the first embodiment, by the hardware in the imageprocess unit 14 in the reading operation in the step S40. Also the areaprocess, the image type conversion and the file format conversion areexecuted by a software process, at the data transfer to the hard disk 7in the step S41.

[0097]FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing sub control routines in thepresent embodiment. The control of the copying apparatus 1 proceeds inso-called multi-task mode, in which plural tasks are executed inapparently parallel manner. FIG. 10 shows the control sequence of a maintask, but a transmission task and a reception task proceed in parallelmanner as shown in FIG. 11. The transmission task executes thetransmission of the scan data, read by the scanner.

[0098] At first a step S51 discriminates whether a transmission list isempty. If empty, indicating that there are no scan data to betransmitted, the sequence returns to the step S51. If not empty, a stepS52 reds the image data from the hard disk 7, divides the image datainto plural packets and transmits these packets to the computer of thedesignated destination. When the transmission is completed in normalmanner, a step S53 deletes the scan data from the transmission list,also deletes the image data from the hard disk 7, and the sequencereturns to the step S51.

[0099] Though not shown in FIG. 11, if the transmission is unsuccessful,the deletion from the list is not conducted, and the transmission isre-tried afterwards. In such case, the transmission is ranked at thelast of the transmission list, and the transmission is re-tried onlyafter the lapse of a predetermined time. When a destination computer isselected on the image frame 35 in FIG. 5 from the registered list, thepower supply of such destination computer may be turned off. However,owing to such retrying system, the operation can be repeated and thescan data can be transmitted as soon as the power supply of thedestination computer is turned on. Also the data can be transferredafterwards in case the destination computer is used for another purposeand busy. Furthermore, even if the destination computer has a lowreception rate, the data can be transferred from the hard disk 7 with alow rate in the background operation, and another reading, printing orcopying operation can be executed during such data transfer.

[0100] The reception task executes the reception of the print data.

[0101] At first a step S61 discriminates whether there is a receptionrequest from the computer, and, if not, the sequence returns to the stepS61, but, if there is a reception request, a step S62 receives the printdata and stores the received data in the hard disk 7, and a step S63makes an addition to the reception list.

[0102] Such parallel proceeding of the main task for the printing,copying and reading operations, the transmission task for thetransmission of the scan data and the reception task for the receptionof the print data allows to reduce the occupied time of the apparatus ineach operation, such as by effecting the next reading, printing orcopying operation in the course of the transmission of the scan data orin the course of reception of the print data, thereby enabling effectiveexploitation of each function and significantly improving theutilization rate of the system.

[0103] In the present embodiment, the operation unit 6 and the imagedisplay unit 61 are constructed separately, but it is also possible toeffect various operations with the image display unit 61 and the mouse62. Such configuration can realize a graphical user interface andsignificantly improves the operation characteristics. For example, thedisplay of the list shown in FIG. 5 may be achieved in a scrolleddisplay, thereby eliminating the limitation on the number of displayableitems. However, the configuration of the present embodiment has anadvantage that the image display unit 61 and the mouse 62 may beprovided as optional equipment.

[0104] In the foregoing first and second embodiments, the basic portionssuch as the scanner unit and the printer unit and the additionalportions such as the image memory are integrally constructed, but sameadvantages can also be obtained in case the system is divided into animage reading apparatus and an image processing apparatus as in thethird embodiment to be explained later.

[0105] [Third Embodiment]

[0106] In the following there will be explained a third embodiment ofthe present invention, with reference to FIGS. 12, 13, 14 and 15.

[0107] The present embodiment is different from the foregoing firstembodiment only in that the copying apparatus 1 is separated into acopying apparatus 102 for reading the image and an image processingapparatus 101, and in the image transfer method to the computer.Consequently the present embodiment will be explained in the followingwith emphasis on such differences, by referring to FIGS. 14, 12 and 13instead of FIGS. 1, 3 and 5, and also to FIG. 15.

[0108]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a copying apparatus 1-2 and an imageprocessing apparatus 1-1, constituting a third embodiment of the presentinvention. This embodiment is different, firstly, from the firstembodiment in that the copying apparatus 1 therein is separated into thecopying apparatus 1-2 and the image processing apparatus 1-1. Thescanner unit 12, the printer unit 13, the digitizer 17 constituting thearea designation means, and the operation unit 6 are provided in thecopying apparatus 1-2. On the other hand, the image memory 73, the harddisk 7 and the external communication circuit 4 are provided in theimage processing apparatus. Such split configuration is based on a factthat the image memory 73, the hard disk 7 and the external communicationcircuit 4 are unnecessary and merely raise the cost in case the copyingapparatus 1-2 is used singly as a stand-alone equipment. By constructingthe copying apparatus 1-2 as explained in the foregoing, for the use asa standalone equipment and by adding the image processing apparatus 1-1when the copying apparatus 1-2 is used also as a scanner or a printer,it is rendered possible to achieve simplification of the configurationand cost reduction in case the copying apparatus is used singly, and toachieve easier supply of the perchandises matching the needs of theusers.

[0109] A second difference from the first embodiment lies in facts thatthe read image data 16 are stored in a FIFO (first-in-first-out) memory71, from which the stored data are transferred by the control unit 5 tothe image memory 73, and that, in the printing operation, the controlunit 5 transfers the image data from the image memory 73 to the FIFOmemory 71, from which the image data 11 are transferred to the copyingapparatus 1-2. The FIFO memory 71 has a capacity of one or severallines, and is so controlled that the data readout is conducted beforethe FIFO memory 71 becomes full by the data write-in. Such configurationcan be realized when the processing speed of the CPU bus 8 issufficiently higher than the transfer rate of the video image data 11,16. With such configuration, the image memory 73 can be constructed sameas the ordinary memory accessible by the CPU, without the necessity ofdata write-in/read-out in synchronization with the addresses generatedcorresponding to the image synchronization signals, so that thecircuitry can be simplified. Also the FIFO memory 71, not requiringaddresses, can be easily controlled.

[0110] As a third difference form the first embodiment, the thirdembodiment is provided with a hard disk 7 as in the second embodimentand the data, read in the scanner, are transferred to such hard disk 7.Also in this embodiment, the image memory 73 is composed of a volatileDRAM.

[0111]FIG. 13 shows the messages displayed on the liquid crystal displayunit 22 of the operation unit 6 in the copying apparatus 1-2, in the usethereof as a remote scanner. FIG. 13 corresponds to FIG. 5 in the firstembodiment, and, in the following, the process in FIG. 13 will beexplained only in the points different from that in FIG. 5, as bothprocesses are mutually common in many aspects. In FIG. 13, image frames81 to 84 are same as the image frames 31 to 34 in FIG. 5 relating to thefirst embodiment. Image frames starting from 85 designate thesubdirectory and the file name, to be used for data storage, in the harddisk 7 of the image processing apparatus 1-1, instead of the destinationcomputer and its subdirectory. At first an image frame 85 is used forselecting a subdirectory of the hard disk 7 of the image processingapparatus 1-1. At first there is displayed a default directory, and,upon selection of another directory, the display moves to such selecteddirectory and the image frame 85 is displayed again. Upon selection of adirectory, the display shifts to an image frame 86 for entering a filename. In the present embodiment there are automatically displayedcertain candidate names among which the selection is made, but it isalso possible to provide a keyboard and to directly enter a file namewith such keyboard. Upon selecting LIST DISPLAY on the image frame 86,the display shifts to an image frame 87 showing a list of the imagefiles in the current directory and the selection can be made from suchlist. In such case, the already existing scan image is overwritten. Anext image frame 88 requests the last instruction whether or not toexecute the image reading. When the operator places the original on theunrepresented original table and selects the scanning operation, theimage reading operation is initiated and the image data of thedesignated area, file format, image size and resolution are transferredto the designated directory in the hard disk 7 of the image processingapparatus 1-1 with the designated file name, and the display thenreturns to the standard image frame.

[0112]FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the main control sequence of thepresent embodiment. As it is similar to the control sequence of theforegoing second embodiment, there will be explained, in the following,only the differences from the flow shown in FIG. 10. Steps S71 to S80are same as the steps S31 to S40 of the second embodiment, shown in FIG.10. A step S81 effects transfer of the image data from the image memoryto the hard disk 7 as in the second embodiment, but without registrationin the transmission list. Thus, after the data transfer to the hard disk7, the sequence immediately returns to the step S71.

[0113] Also in the present embodiment, the conversion of resolution isexecuted by a hardware in the image process unit 14, at the readingoperation in the step S70. Also the area processing and the conversionof the image type and the file format are executed by a software at thedata transfer to the hard disk 7 in the step S71.

[0114]FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing sub control routines of thepresent embodiment. As these routines are similar to those of the secondembodiment, there will only be explained the differences form those ofthe second embodiment shown in FIG. 11. In the transmission task in thesecond embodiment, after the original reading, there are automaticallyexecuted registration on the transmission list and the data transfer tothe computer, but, in the present embodiment, the data transfer to thecomputer is executed according to a request therefrom.

[0115] At first a step S91 discriminates whether there is a transmissionrequest for the scan data from the computer, and, if not, the sequencereturns to the step S91, but, if the request is present, a step S92transmits the requested scan data to the computer that has issued therequest. After the transmission, a step S93 deletes the image data fromthe hard disk 7.

[0116] In the reception task, steps S95 to S97 are same as the steps S61to S63 of the second embodiment shown in FIG. 11.

[0117] By transferring the data to the hard disk 7 in the course of thereading operation under the instruction from the operation unit 6, theimage memory 73 can be promptly liberated, so that there can be providedan advantage similar to that in the second embodiment.

[0118] Also the data transfer to the computer in response to theinstruction therefrom provides an advantage that the image data can befetched at a convenient timing therefor.

[0119] In the present embodiment, the image reading apparatus 1-2 andthe image processing apparatus 1-1 are constructed separately, but theymay also be constructed integrally as in the foregoing first and secondembodiments.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the area designation is conducted bythe digitizer 17 on the image frame 81 shown in FIG. 13, but it may alsobe achieved by an image display unit and a mouse as in the secondembodiment. Also in the present embodiment, the area designation isexecuted on the image frame 81 and the image reading operation isexecuted on the image frame 88, but it is also possible to invert thesequence to at first execute the image reading thereby storing the imagedata in the image memory 73, then to prepare display data from suchimage data and to effect the area designation under the observation ofthe displayed data. In such case, after the area designation, the imagedata corresponding to the designated area are stored in the hard disk 7.

[0121] Also in the present embodiment, the area, resolution, image typeand format are designated from the operation unit 6 of the copyingapparatus 1-1, but such designations may be wholly or partly given fromthe host computer. For example it is also possible to store the RGB rawdata of 400 dpi of the maximum original size in a compressed form in thehard disk 7 under the instruction from the operation unit 6 and to sendother instructions from the computer of the user, thereby effectingconversion to the area, resolution, image type and format designated inthe copying apparatus 1 and transfer to the host computer. Suchoperation mode provides an advantage that the image need not be readagain in case of an alteration in the area, resolution, image type orformat.

[0122] In the second and third embodiments, the image data are convertedinto the designated area, resolution, image type and format prior to thestorage in the hard disk 7, but it is also possible to store the data inanother form in the hard disk and to effect such conversion at the datatransfer to the computer. For example the data may be stored in the harddisk 7 with a resolution of 400 dpi and converted to another resolutionat the transfer to the computer, and such operation mode provides anadvantage that the image need not be read again in case of an alterationin the resolution. It is furthermore possible to store the data in thehard disk 7 in a compressed form and to convert the data into thedesignated format at the transfer to the computer, and such operationmode provides an advantage that the file capacity required for storagein the hard disk 7 can be reduced.

[0123] Also in the second and third embodiments, the image data areautomatically deleted after the data transfer to the computer, but suchdata deletion may be dispensed with. It is also possible to effect suchdeletion after the lapse of a predetermined time, or from the oldestimage in case the number of the read image exceeds a predeterminednumber, or by a manual instruction.

[0124] Also in the second and third embodiments, there is formed a readimage on the hard disk 7, but it is also possible to automatically formplural read images thereon. For example it is also possible to form animage of a higher resolution and an image of a lower resolution from animage and to transfer the image of lower resolution. In this case thecomputer is enabled to effect image editing by the image of lowerresolution and to fetch the image of higher resolution for replacing theimage of lower resolution, if necessary.

[0125] In the foregoing first, second and third embodiments, theconversion of resolution is executed by a hardware and the conversion ofimage type and file format is executed by a software, but it is alsopossible to effect the conversion of resolution by a software and/or toeffect the conversion of image type and file format by a hardware. Alsoin the third embodiment, the conversion of resolution is executed in thecopying apparatus 1-2 while the conversion of image type and file formatis executed in the image processing apparatus 1-1, but these operationsmay be mutually exchanged.

[0126] Also in the first, second and third embodiments, the image memoryis so constructed as to store the RGB data of the image of the maximumoriginal size, obtained after the conversion of resolution, but it mayalso be so constructed as to store the data of the designated area only,or to store the data without conversion of resolution and to effect suchconversion afterwards by a software. It is furthermore possible toconvert the image type by a hardware and to store the image datacorresponding to the designated image type.

[0127] Also in the first, second and third embodiments, there has beenexplained a system consisting of an image reading apparatus andcomputers mutually connected with a local area network, but such systemmay be applied also to a wire area network, for example connecting thebranch stores located within Japan. In such case it becomes possible todirectly send that from the scanner of a branch A to the computer of abranch B.

[0128] Also in the first, second and third embodiments there has beenexplained the case of sending the scanned image data to a computerconnected by a network, but such embodiments may also be applied to aconfiguration for sending the data to one of plural printers connectedby the network.

[0129] In the first, second and third embodiments, explanation has beengiven to the scanner and the printer, but there may also be employedother image input/output devices such as a film reader or a filmrecorder. The effect of the present invention is significantparticularly in case of the film reader, because it requires variousprocesses in the reading device, such as film setting, designation ofthe film type etc. Also there is known a product capable of achieving afilm scanner function by attaching a film projector to the copyingapparatus, and the effect of the present invention is even larger insuch product since the film projector has to be set on the readingapparatus.

[0130] [Fourth Embodiment]

[0131] In the following there will be explained an embodiment providedwith a server machine for managing the users and the data on the LAN.

[0132]FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a facsimile apparatus constituting afourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 16 there are shown aCPU 101 constituting a system control unit for controlling the entireapparatus; a ROM 102 storing control programs for the CPU 101; a ROM 103composed for example of a SRAM storing variables for program control andalso serving for storage of the set values registered by the operatorand the management data of the apparatus and also for work memories; animage memory 104 composed for example of a DRAM and serving to store theimage data; and a resolution conversion unit 105 for controlling theconversion of resolution, such as millimeter-inch conversion of theraster data.

[0133] There are further provided a communication encoding/decoding unit106 adapted, in case the encoding method for the image reading isdifferent from that for the transmission, to effect encoding forcommunication and to decode the received encoded data into data forrecording; a reading/recording encoding/decoding unit 107 for encodingand decoding the image data at the image reading and at the recording; aMODEM 108 for effecting modulation and demodulation of the signal to betransmitted or received in the facsimile communication; an NCU 109 forsending a selection signal (dialling pulses or tone dialer) to a wiredcommunication line 120 through a wired line interface 117 or to awireless communication line 121 through a wireless line interface 118,and also for effecting automatic call reception by detecting a calltone; and a wired/wireless line control unit 119 for controlling thewired line interface 117 and the wireless line interface 118.

[0134] There are further provided a scanner 111 composed of an imagesensor, an original transport mechanism etc. and adapted to opticallyread the original in the unit of a line to provide electrical imagedata; and an image process unit 110 for effecting correction on theimage data, obtained in the scanner 111, to provide high-quality imagedata.

[0135] An operation unit 112 is composed for example of a keyboard andis used for various input operations by the operator. An externaldisplay unit 113 is composed for example of an LCD or LED's and displaysvarious information for the user.

[0136] A printer formatter 114 servers, in printing the file data forexample from a work station, to analyze the code data such as theprinter description language for conversion into the image data. Aprinter 115 visibly records the received image or the file data on therecording sheet.

[0137] A wired LAN interface 122 and a wireless LAN interface 123respectively connect the present facsimile apparatus to a wired LAN 125and a wireless LAN 126, and are controlled by a wired/wireless LANcontrol unit 124. A LAN control unit 116 executes data processing fordata exchange with a server or with terminals on the wired LAN 125 orthe wireless LAN 126.

[0138] A LAN information memory 127 stores information on the user orthe client on the LAN (wired LAN 125 and wireless LAN 126). Theabove-mentioned information is displayed on the external display unit113 by the operation of the operation unit 112 and is selected by theoperator. The operation unit 112 includes address selection means on theLAN.

[0139]FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing the form of connection of thefacsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 16.

[0140]201 indicates a facsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 1, directlyconnectable with the wired LAN 125 and the wireless LAN 126.

[0141] A server machine 202 is provided in the wired LAN 125 and thewireless LAN 126 (hereinafter collectively called LAN) to which theabove-mentioned facsimile apparatus is connected, and manages the filesand protocols on the LAN. Also the process and the data for usermanagement on the LAN are provided on the server machine 202. Besidesthe server machine 202 is provided with a large memory capacity.

[0142] There are further shown client machines (information processingterminals 203, 204 connected to the wired LAN 125; a printer server 205for receiving a print request from the client machine and effectingoutput control to the printer; a printer 206 for printing the imagedata; a client machine 207 connected to the wireless LAN 126; afacsimile apparatus 208 for effecting communication with the facsimileapparatus 201 through a wired communication line 120; and a PSTN (publicswitched telephone network) 210 to which the facsimile apparatus 201,208 and a wireless station 209 are connected through the wiredcommunication line 120.

[0143] The wireless LAN 126 is composed of facsimile apparatus andclient machines respectively provided with wireless LAN interfaces.

[0144] A wireless communication line 121 connects the facsimileapparatus 201 and the wireless station 209 through a wireless lineinterface 118.

[0145]FIG. 18 shows the content of the user/client managementinformation stored in the LAN information memory 127. This informationis received through the communication with the server machine 202 andstored.

[0146] The user information contains the information on the users,permitted on the LAN. More specifically, for each user, there aremanaged a user name and a host name logged in by the user. Both the username and the logged-in host name are text data readable by the CPU 101.

[0147] The client information contains the information on the clientmachines connected to the LAN. For each client, there are managed a hostaddress of the client machine on the network and the status of theclient machine. The host address is for example 123, 456, 789 or 001 inthe TCP/IP protocol, and the host status is for example “connected” or“non-connected”.

[0148]FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the control sequence of anoriginal image scanning process in the fourth embodiment, correspondingto the operations executed by the CPU 101 according to a program storedin the ROM 102.

[0149] In the scanning process for reading an image to be transferred toa user on the LAN, there is at first detected the depression of ascanning key in the operation unit 112 (different from the instructionfor ordinary copying or for reading the original for facsimiletransmission) (step S101). After the detection of depression of thescanning key, there is discriminated whether the user information isstored in the LAN information memory 127 (step S102). If not, thesequence is terminated by an error. If stored, the user name of the userinformation stored at the top of the LAN information memory 127 isdisplayed on the external display unit 113 (step S103), and there aredetected the depression of the scrol key and the fix key in theoperation unit 112 (steps S104, S105). If the scrol key is depressed,there is discriminated whether user information is stored next to thedisplayed user information (step S110), and, if stored, such next userinformation is displayed (step S103). If there is not next userinformation, no operation is conducted. If the fix key is depressed, thecurrently displayed user information is fixed (step S106). Then, afterthe setting of necessary information such as a reception number and atime in the LAN information memory 127 (step S107), the original imagereading is started by the scanner 111. After or simultaneous with theoriginal reading, the read image data are stored in the image memory104, in correspondence with the user name on the LAN, for use by theuser fixed in the step S106. Also there is added information indicatingthe scanner 111 used for image reading (step S109). Subsequently theimage data are transferred to an area, corresponding to theabove-mentioned user name, in the memory managed by the server machine202 of the LAN. Thus the logged-in user is informed of the presence ofsuch data, and can obtained the data from the server machine 202,utilizing the client machine. It is also possible to transfer the imagedata from the image memory 104 to the memory of the client machine,utilizing the client name.

[0150]FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the method of acquiring theinformation on the user on the LAN.

[0151] At first there is monitored the lapse of a predetermined timefrom the previous acquisition of the user information (step S111). Afterthe lapse of the predetermined time, a request is sent, for acquiringthe information on the user on the LAN, to the server machine 202 andthe requested information is obtained (step S112). The obtainedinformation is stored in the LAN information memory 127 to renew thedata stored therein. The user information may be obtained inclassifications such as the information on all the users, new users,deleted users, altered users etc. After the acquisition of theinformation, the acquisition time of the user information is renewed(step S113).

[0152]FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing another example of the method foracquiring the information on the user on the LAN.

[0153] At first, in response to the detection of the depression of thescanning key, instructing the start of scanning operation, as explainedin the foregoing (step S121), a request for the user information is sentto the user information managing processor of the server machine on theLAN, and the requested user information is received and stored in theLAN information memory 127 to renew the data stored therein (step S122).Subsequent steps S123 to S130 are same as the steps S103 to S110explained in the foregoing and will not, therefore, be explainedfurther.

[0154]FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing still another example of themethod for acquiring the information on the user on the LAN.

[0155] At first there is detected the depression of the scanning key(step S131) as explained in the foregoing. After the detection of keydepression, there is discriminated whether user information is stored inthe LAN information memory 127 (step S132). If not, a request for theuser information is sent to the user information managing process of theserver machine 202 on the LAN and the requested information is obtained(step S143). The received user information is stored in the LANinformation memory 127 to renew the data stored therein (step S144).Then an alarm and display, indicating an error, are given (step S145)and the sequence is terminated by an error.

[0156] On the other hand, if the user information is stored, the userinformation stored at the top is displayed (step S133), and there isdiscriminated the depression of the scrol key and the fix key (stepsS134, S135). If the scrol key is depressed, there is discriminatedwhether user information is stored next to the displayed userinformation (step S142), and, if there is such next user information, itis displayed (step S133). If there is no next user information, nooperation is conducted. If the fix key is depressed, the currentlydisplayed user information is fixed (step S136). With thus fixed userinformation, there is requested the reference of the user information tothe user information managing process of the server machine 202 on theLAN to check the content (step S137). If the content is proper andcoincides with the latest user management information (step S138), thereis set necessary information such as a reception number and a time inthe LAN information memory 127 (step S139), and the original readingoperation is started with the scanner 111 (step S140). On the otherhand, if the data do not coincide, the user information in the LANinformation memory 127 is renewed according to the user informationreferred to in the step S137 (step S144). After or simultaneous with theoriginal image reading operation, the read image data are stored in theimage memory 104 in correspondence with the user name on the LAN, forthe user fixed in the step S136 (S141). Subsequently the image data aretransferred as a file to a memory area, corresponding to each user,managed by the server machine 202 of the LAN. The image data may bedirectly transferred to the memory of the client machine. Also the username may be replaced by the host name of the client machine. Thetransfer of the image data is always executed in relation to the username or the host name of the client machine. Also there is addedinformation indicating the scanner 111 used for image reading.

[0157]FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the method for renewing the userinformation in the LAN information memory 127 of the facsimile apparatus201, by the user information management processor of the server machine202 on the LAN.

[0158] When a renewal operation of the user information, such asaddition, alteration or delation, is conducted (step S151), there isexecuted a downloading of the user data, for informing the facsimileapparatus 201 of the latest user information (step S152). The facsimileapparatus 201 stores the received data in the LAN information memory127, and executes verification whether the data in the LAN informationmemory 127 coincide with the data of the management processor of theserver machine 202 (step S153). In this manner the user informationstored in the facsimile apparatus 201 can be maintained same as that onthe LAN.

[0159] As explained in the foregoing, the present embodiment allows todesignate the start of the original reading operation and the user onthe LAN, to which the read image data are to be transferred, from theoperation unit 112 of the facsimile apparatus 201, thereby eliminatingthe necessity of visiting the facsimile apparatus and the destinationclient machine repeatedly and thus significantly improving the operationcharacteristics. Also, since the read image data are correlated with theuser name or the client machine of the destination, it is renderedpossible to avoid undesired sojourn of the data within the networkbecause of the unidentified destination. Furthermore, since the readimage data are once stored in the image memory 104 in correlation withthe user name or the client machine of the destination, the facsimileapparatus 201 can be prevented from being occupied for a prolonged time,resulting from repeated reading operations in case the destinationclient machine is incapable of reception for some reason. Furthermore,since the user information in the LAN information memory 127 isappropriately renewed, there can be prevented erroneous operations suchas data transfer to a non-existing user. Also, since the data areassociated with information indicating that the data are read with thescanner 111, the data can be easily distinguished from the data offacsimile reception.

[0160] [Fifth Embodiment]

[0161] The following embodiment is to perform various processing byusing a digital copy machine.

[0162]FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a schematic construction of adigital copy machine according to the fifth embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0163] In FIG. 24, reference numeral 300 denotes a copy machine (mainbody). The copy machine 300 consists of a central processing unit (CPU)301, a read-only memory (ROM) 302, a random-access memory (RAM) 303, aPC card interface 304 for connecting a PC card, a detachable PC card305, a floppy disk drive interface (FDD I/F) 306, a floppy disk drive(FDD) 307, a liquid crystal display (LCD) controller 308, a liquidcrystal display (LCD) 309, a key input interface 310, a touch panel 311,an operation key 312, an image memory 313, a scanner interface 314, ascanner 315, a printer interface 316, a printer 317, an externalinterface 318, a floppy disk (FD) 319, and an infrared ray sensor 320.

[0164] The CPU 301 controls the apparatus as a whole in accordance withprograms stored in the ROM 302, the RAM 303, the PC card 305 and thelike. The ROM 302 constantly stores an execution program used for thecontrol by the CPU 301 and various parameters, and consists of, e.g., aflash ROM or the like. If it is necessary to update the program or thelike stored in the ROM 302, the ROM 302 can easily be updated at anytime by writing thereinto updated data obtained from the mounted PC card305, the floppy disk 319 or an external host computer via the externalinterface 318. The RAM 303 temporarily stores the program and datanecessary for executing the program. The PC card interface 304 acts asan interface to be used for accessing the detachable PC card 305 fromthe CPU 301. The floppy disk drive interface 306 can read data stored inthe floppy disk 319 inserted into the floppy disk drive 307 and newlywrite data into the floppy disk 319, by driving the floppy disk drive307. The LCD controller 308 displays a character, a drawing and the likeon the LCD 309, by receiving from the CPU 301 the data to be displayed.The touch panel 311 which is a pressure-sensitive transparent switch ismounted on the LCD 309 to detect a depression operation by a user. Thekey input interface 310 is used to read states of the touch panel 311and the operation key 312. By combining the LCD 309 and the touch panel311 with each other, an operation image plane can appropriately bechanged according to various situations-, whereby an operation unit or aconsole unit which is easy to be used by the user can be provided. Theimage memory 313 stores image data to be input/output by the scanner 315and the printer 317. The scanner 315 and the printer 317 manage acommand and the image data via the scanner interface 314 and the printerinterface 316, respectively. The scanner 315 reads an original image byscanning an original placed on an original support plate. The printer317 prints out the image data which is received via the externalinterface 318. Further, the printer 317 prints out the image read by thescanner 315, thereby copying the original. The external interface 318 isan interface to be used for communicating to one or plural computers,e.g., a personal computer, a work station and/or the like, which areplaced outside the copy machine 300. The infrared ray sensor 320 is asensor to be used for detecting whether or not an operator stands nearbythe operation unit (the LCD 309, the touch panel 311 and the operationkey 312) of the copy machine 300.

[0165]FIG. 25 shows an example of the configuration in a case where thecopy machine 300 in FIG. 24 is connected to a local area network (LAN).The copy machine 300 can act as a well-known digital copy machine suchas a local copier and further send/receive the data to/from otherdevices in the LAN.

[0166] In FIG. 25, reference numeral 401 denotes a LAN which forms anetwork to which a plurality of computers, copy machines, facsimilemachines, scanners, printers and the like are connected and in whichdata sending and receiving are performed among these devices.

[0167] Reference numerals 402, 403 and 404 denote personal computerswhich are connected to the LAN 401. However, computers which can beconnected to the LAN 401 are not limited to these three computers 402,403 and 404, but various computers can also be connected to the LAN 401.

[0168] A process in case of accessing the external computer from thecopy machine 300 will then be explained on the basis of a flow chartshown in FIG. 26. This flow chart is executed based on a program storedin the ROM 302. However, this flow chart can also be executed based on aprogram which is read from the PC card 305 or the floppy disk 319, or issent via the external interface 318. It should be noted that the copymachine 300 has a slave mode and a master mode. In the slave mode, thecopy machine 300 operates based on an instruction from the externalcomputer. In the master mode, the computer is accessed from theoperation key 312 of the copy machine 300, so that the copy machine 300prints out a file stored in the computer by using the printer 317, andtransfers data read by the scanner 315 to the computer.

[0169] Further, in the slave mode, the printer 317 is operated inresponse to a print order from the external computer to print out imagedata sent from the external computer, and the scanner 315 is operated inresponse to a scan start order for reading operation sent from thecomputer to read an image of an original and then to transfer the readimage data to the computer. On the other hand, in the master mode, thecopy machine 300 specifies or accesses the computer by depressing aremote key of the operation key 312 and then starts a process. Thisprocess will be explained in detail, hereinafter.

[0170] In FIG. 26, when the remote key is depressed in a step S301, itis judged in a step S302 whether or not another process is beingperformed. If the another process is being performed, the flow advancesto a step S303. In the step S303, the LCD 309 displays that the anotherprocess is being performed, to notify the operator that, in such astate, a different process in the master mode cannot start. Then, in astep S304, it is displayed to inquire the operator whether or not theremote key depression should be cancelled. If a cancel is selected bythe touch panel 311, the display state of the LCD 309 returns to aninitial state. If the cancel is not selected, in a step S305, a stand-bystate starts and is maintained until the another process presentlyperformed terminates. When it is judged that the presently-performedanother process terminates (in this case an alarm sound is generated),or if it is judged in the step S302 that the another process is notbeing performed, the displaying of the LCD 309 that the another processis being performed or the displaying of the LCD 309 indicating theinitial state is switched to the displaying shown in FIG. 27, in orderto set the master mode in a step S306.

[0171] In FIG. 27, a print button 501 is used for performing a printprocess in the master mode, a scan button 502 is used for performing ascan process in the master mode, a control button 503 is used forperforming a remote control process of the computer, and a cancel button504 is used for cancelling the process in the master mode. By depressingrespective positions at which the buttons are displayed on the LCD 309,coordinates of pixels on the touch panel 311 are detected, and then itis judged by the CPU 301 via the key interface 310 which position of thebutton is depressed.

[0172] If it is judged in a step S307 that the print button isdepressed, the flow advances to a step S308 to perform the print processin the master mode. If it is judged in a step S309 that the scan button502 is depressed, the flow advances to a step S310 to perform the scanprocess in the master mode. If it is judged in a step S311 that thecontrol button 503 is depressed, the flow advances to a step S312 toperform the remote control process of the computer. If it is judged in astep S313 that the cancel button 504 is depressed, the master mode iscancelled and the displaying of the LCD 309 returns to the initialstate.

[0173] Then, the process in a case where the print button 501 isdepressed in the step S307 of FIG. 26 will be explained hereinafter onthe basis of the flow charts shown in FIGS. 28 and 29.

[0174] When the print button 501 is depressed in the step S307 of FIG.26, the displaying of the LCD 309 is changed to that shown in FIG. 30.

[0175] In FIG. 30, a list 701 shows a list of the computers connected tothe LAN 401, a connection button 702 is used to start an access to thecomputer, a cancel button 703 is used to cancel the print process, apassword display column 704 shows an input password, a character palette705 is used to input a character and the like, a tab 706 is used todisplay all of the accessible computers, a tab 707 is used to displaythe computer which has most-recently been accessed, a tab 708 is used todisplay the computers which had previously been accessed, in the orderof name (i.e., in the order of smaller code number), and a tab 709 isused to display the computers which are frequently or often accessed.

[0176] When the print button 501 is depressed in the step S307 of FIG.26, the CPU 301 forms the list of registered names of the computersaccessible by inquiring a predetermined computer (e.g., a server or thelike) connected to the LAN 401 via the external interface 318, and thendisplays as the list 701 of FIG. 30 in a step S501. This displayingcorresponds to a state where the tab 707 for displaying all ofaccessible host computers is being selected. Then, in a step S502, theposition at which the desired computer is displayed in the list 701 isdepressed to select the desired computer. In this case, a name of theselected computer (“ABC” in FIG. 30) is inverse displayed. Then, in astep S503, a password corresponding to the computer selected in the stepS502 is input by means of a character list of the character palette 705.The input password is displayed on the password display column 704 in aform of invisible character (or turned letter), so that an inputoperation can be confirmed. If an erroneous character is input wheninputting the password, the input erroneous character can be deleted inunit of character by depressing a deletion key included in the characterpalette 705. In the above operation, the order of computer selection andpassword input may arbitrarily set.

[0177] When both the computer selection and the password inputterminate, in a step S504, the CPU 301 communicates with the selectedcomputer on the basis of a network address in the LAN 401 by depressingthe connection button 702, to confirm the password. Then, it is judgedin a step S505 whether or not the input password coincides with aregistered password, i.e., whether or not the input password is corrector not. If it is judged in the step S505 that the input password iscorrect, the selected computer can be accessed and the connection isestablished. Thereafter, the flow advances to a step S507. On the otherhand, if the input password does not coincide with the registeredpassword whereby it is judged that the input password is not correct, anerror display is performed in a step S506, and the flow returns to thestep S501. If the connection is established, information relating to thecomputer to which the connection is established is stored in a certainarea, in the step S507. That is, the information relating to a name ofthe connected computer, a time when the access is performed, the numberof previously-accessed times and the like is stored. Preferably, astorage media to which the information is stored is the RAM 303.However, a partial area of the ROM 302, the PC card 305 or the floppydisk 319 can also be used as the storage media.

[0178] As mentioned above, it has been explained the case where adestination to which the connection is performed is selected from amongall of the connectable computers. However, it will be explainedhereinafter a case where the destination to be connected is selectedfrom among the computers to which the connection had previously beenperformed.

[0179] In the present embodiment, a display mode of the computer ischanged by selecting the tabs 706, 707, 708 and 709 in accordance with aflow shown in FIG. 37. That is, if the tab 706 showing all of theaccessible computers is being selected in a step S1401, the computersconnected via the external interface 318 are searched in a step S1402,and then the list of the accessible computers is formed and displayed ina step S1408. If the tab 707 showing the most recently-accessed computeris being selected in a step S1403, the information relating to thepreviously-accessed computers is searched so that the computers aresequentially listed in the most recently-accessed order in a step S1404.Then, the formed list is displayed in the step S1408. If the tab 708showing the previously-accessed computers (or showing the computerswhich have previously-accessed experience) in the order of name is beingselected in a step S1405, it is formed in a step S1406 the list in whichnames of the previously-accessed computers are arranged in the order ofname (i.e., the order of code), and then the formed list is displayed inthe step S1408. If the tab 709 showing the frequently-accessed oroften-accessed computers is being selected, it is formed in a step S1407the list in which the previously-accessed computers are listed in theorder of higher frequency, and then the formed list is displayed in thestep S1408. According to the above operation, from among all of theaccessible computers or the previously-accessed computers, the computerlists can be shown under a desired condition on the basis of a user'sinstruction and then the user can select the desired computer.

[0180] When the selected computer is accessed according to the aboveprocedure to establish the connection, the displaying of the LCD 309 ischanged to that shown in FIG. 31.

[0181] In FIG. 31, a list 801 shows files which are managed by theselected computer, a preview button 802 is used to display an image ofthe selected file, a print button 803 is used to print out the image ofthe selected file, and a cancel button 804 is used to return a presentimage plane to the image plane used for computer selection shown in FIG.30.

[0182] In a step S508 of FIG. 28, the file list is displayed as shown inthe list 801 of FIG. 31. If the list does not exist in a directoryincluding an objective file, the directory can be shifted by selecting asub-directory (marked as “.” in FIG. 31) or an upper directory (markedas “t” in FIG. 31).

[0183] When a position of the desired file in the file list is depressedin a step S509, a name of the depressed file is reverse displayed andthe file is selected. When the file is selected, it is judged in a stepS510 whether or not the preview button 802 is depressed. When depressed,in a step S511, the accessed computer is instructed to discriminate anapplication software which is used to form that file, on the basis ofthe selected file name. Further, in a step S512, the discriminatedapplication software starts, and the data in the selected file is readout as bit map data. Then, in a step S513, the image data in thebit-mapped desired file is transferred, and the transferred image datais displayed on the LCD 309 in a step S514. In this case, an upperportion of first page is initially displayed, then a following portionsare sequentially displayed in response to operations of a scroll key, anext page key, an entire display key (i.e., used for displaying acompressed one page) and the like (not shown). When the displayingterminates in a step S515, the flow waits for a next key input. When acancel key (not shown) is depressed in a step S516, the flow returns tothe step S508 to display the file list. If the cancel key is notdepressed, the flow again waits for the depression of any one of thepreview button 802, the print button 803 and the cancel button 804.Then, if it is judged in a step S601 that the print button is depressed,high-resolution image data for printing the selected file is transferredin steps S603 to S605 according to the same procedure as that shown inthe steps S511 to S513. The transferred image data is printed out by theprinter 317 in a step S606. It should be noted that the image datatransferred in the step S513 or S605 is resolution converted ifnecessary.

[0184] On the other hand, if it is judged in the step S602 that thecancel button 804 is depressed, the flow returns to the step S501 todisplay the computer list.

[0185]FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing an execution sequence at acomputer side on the LAN 401. This execution sequence relates to thefile transferring based on the instructions from the copy machine 300 inthe steps S501 to S513 and the steps S603 to S605. If there are theinstructions as in the steps S511 and S603, it is checked in a step S901which application software is used to form the designated file, byreferring the file held at the computer side and a data basecorresponding to the application software used for forming the heldfile. Then, in a step S902, if the application software does not yetstart the application software starts to read the designated file.Thereafter, in a step S903, the displayed image plane, e.g., windowcontents of a word processor, is obtained to generate data for theprinting, and the generated data is transferred to the copy machine 300.

[0186] According to the above operation, a copy machine 300 side canobtain data of the image plane relating to the file contents displayedon the computer. Thus, even if the computer side has the file of anyform, the copy machine 300 side receives the bit-mapped data, wherebythe displaying and the printing of the received data can be performed atthe copy machine 300 side.

[0187] It will be explained hereinafter a case where the user explicitlyreleases the accessing.

[0188] As explained above, since the operation can be returned to theone-previous operation by depressing the cancel button in each operationimage plane, it is possible as one method to release the accessing byrepeating the same operation. On the other hand, in the presentinvention, there is provided as the other (more easy) method a key forreleasing the accessing.

[0189]FIG. 38 is a view showing an outer configuration of a console unit(including the LCD 309, the touch panel 311 and the operation key 312)of the copy machine 300 of the present invention. In FIG. 38, referencenumeral 1501 denotes a display unit consisting of the LCD 309 and thetouch panel 311, reference numeral 1502 denotes a reset key, referencenumeral 1503 denotes a remote key (previously explained), referencenumeral 1504 denotes a preheat key, reference numeral 1505 denotes astart key, reference numeral 1506 denotes a ten key and referencenumeral 1507 denotes a stop key. It should be noted that these keys arehard keys which together construct the operation key 312. Each of theremote key 1503 and the preheat key 1504 has, at its upper portion, anLED display unit to show a presently-set operation mode.

[0190] The display unit 1501 displays an operation panel for the user inaccordance with the above-mentioned various cases, to accept the user'skey input. The reset key 1502 is a key which is used to return all ofthe presently-set various setting states to the initial setting state.

[0191] In the state where the computer is being accessed via theexternal interface 318 by depressing the remote key 1503, the CPU 301turns on an LED of the remote key 1503. Therefore, the user can easilyrecognize that a computer access mode is being set. In the computeraccess mode, if the user wishes to release the accessing, he can obtainthe same effect by using several keys in addition to the sequentialdepressing of the cancel key. That is, when the reset key 1502 isdepressed, it is meant by this depressing that the user indicates toreturn the setting mode to the initial state. Therefore, the CPU 301terminates the communication with the computer and returns the displayunit 1501 to the initial image plane. When the preheat key 1504 isdepressed, the copy machine 300 turns off a main power source to come tobe in a preheat mode. In the preheat mode, to hold the computeraccessing is meaningless, so that the accessing is similarly releasedand then the copy machine 300 comes to be in the preheat mode. When theremote key 1503 is again depressed in a state where the LED of theremote key 1503 is being turned on, it is meant by this depressing thatthe user indicates to access an other new computer. Therefore, the CPU301 releases the accessing for the computer presently accessed.

[0192] As explained above, since the accessing can directly be releasedbased on the instruction from the operation key 312, the user canimmediately release the accessing if necessary.

[0193] Then, in a case where a standby state of the copy machine 300continues for a predetermined period of time because the user does notoperate the copy machine 300 for a long period of time, i.e., in a casewhere a setting mode reset timer or a preheat timer operates, if it ismaintained the state that the computer is being accessed, the CPU 301releases the accessing without any instruction by the user and operatesto come to be in a mode reset state or in the preheat mode.

[0194] Further, when the infrared ray sensor 320 detects that the userdoes not stand nearby the copy machine 300 and the copy machine 300 isin the standby state for the predetermined period of time afterterminating the designated operation, the present accessing is releasedand the copy machine 300 comes to be in the standby state in order toprevent a situation that a next user directly accesses the computer.

[0195] The above-explained various methods for releasing the accessingare also effective in a case where an operation explained below is beingperformed.

[0196] It will be explained hereinafter a flow of processing in case ofdepressing the scan button 502 in the step S309 of FIG. 26, on the basisof the flow chart shown in FIG. 33.

[0197] When the scan button 502 is depressed in the step S309 of FIG.26, the displaying of the LCD 309 is changed or switched to that shownin FIG. 30.

[0198] In the processing, a procedure for accessing the computer shownin steps S1001 to S1005 is the same as that shown in thepreviously-explained steps S501 to S505, so that the detailedexplanation thereof is omitted.

[0199] When the connection with the computer is established by selectingand accessing the computer, same as in the step S507, informationconcerning the computer to which the connection is established is storedin a step S1007. Then, the flow advances to a step S1008 to switch thedisplaying of the LCD 309 to that shown in FIG. 34.

[0200] In FIG. 34, reference numeral 1101 denotes a preview frame fordisplaying an image of a read original, reference numeral 1102 denotes alist of directories managed by the accessed computer, reference numeral1103 denotes a scan button which is used for transferring read imagedata to the accessed computer, reference numeral 1104 denotes a previewbutton which is used for displaying the read image in the preview frame,reference numeral 1105 denotes a cancel button which is used forreturning the image plane to that shown in FIG. 30 which is used toselect the computer, reference numeral 1106 denotes a file name displayframe for displaying an input file name, and reference numeral 1107denotes a character palette which is used for inputting a character andthe like.

[0201] When the original is placed on the original support plate and thepreview button 1104 is depressed in the step S1008, the original placedon the original support plate is read by the scanner 315 in a stepS1009. Then, read image data is stored in the image memory 313 in a stepS1010 and is displayed on the preview frame 1101 in a step S1011. In astep S1012, if necessary, two points on the preview frame 1101 aredesignated for trimming a rectangular area of which diagonal line isdefined by the designated two points. In this case, address informationof the designated or selected area is stored in the RAM 303. In a stepS1013, the directory in which the read image data is to be stored isselected by depressing its position in the directory list 1102.Subsequently, the file name used for storing the read image data intothe computer is selected from the character palette 1107. The file nameinput from the character palette 1107 is displayed on the file namedisplay frame 1106 to be able to be confirmed by the user. After thesedesignations and selections terminate, when the scan button 1103 isdepressed in a step S1014, the area of the read image data selected inthe step S1012 is read from the image memory 313 on the basis of thestored address information, and the read area as well as the input filename is transferred to the accessed computer and stored in the selecteddirectory within a memory of the computer in steps S1015 and S1016.

[0202] It will be explained hereinafter a case where the control button503 is depressed in the step S311 of FIG. 26.

[0203] When the control button 503 is depressed in the step S311 of FIG.26, the operation image plane of the LCD 309 is changed or switched tothe image plane which is used for selecting the computer shown in FIG.30. The method for selecting the computer is the same as that in theselection operation already explained in the steps S501 to S505 and thesteps S1001 to S1005, whereby the detailed explanation thereof isomitted. After the connection is established with the computer by theabove method, the LCD 309 switches its displayed image plane to thatshown in FIG. 35. In FIG. 35, reference numeral 1201 denotes a computerimage plane display frame, reference numeral 1202 denotes an image onthe computer, reference numeral 1203 denotes an enlargement icon,reference numeral 1204 denotes a reduction icon, reference numeral 1205denotes a mouse crick icon, reference numeral 1206 denotes an imageplane scroll cursor icon, reference numeral 1207 denotes a characterpalette used for inputting a character, and reference numeral 1208denotes a cancel button used for returning the image plane to that shownin FIG. 30.

[0204] In FIG. 35, the contents same as those of the image displayed onthe image plane of the connected computer are displayed on the computerimage plane display frame 1202. However, since a size of the displaydevice of the computer is generally larger than a size of the displaydevice of the copy machine 300, the image to be displayed on thecomputer image plane display frame 1201 is limited to a part of theimage originally displayed by the computer. In order to display otherparts which are not essentially displayed on the computer image planedisplay frame 1201, the user may shift such the not-displayed parts tobe within the frame with scrolling the image by the depressing of theimage scroll icon 1206. If the user wishes to see the entire image, hemay depress the reduction icon 1204 to perform the reduced displaying ofthe image. Further, if the user wishes to see the detailed portion ofthe image, he may depress the enlargement icon 1203 to perform theenlarged displaying of the image. In order to use from the copy machine300 side a pointing device such as a mouse or the like at the computerside, a mouse cursor position can be indicated from the image inputdevice by depressing the inside portion of the computer image planedisplay frame 1201, and also a mouse crick can be input by using themouse crick icon 1205. If it is necessary to input the character on thecomputer, such the character can be input from the character palette1207. All of these operations which are to change the displaying of theimages and perform the character inputs are performed by the CPU 308.That is, the CPU 308 detects the user's operations for the touch panel311 on the LCD 309 and judges the user's objective operation on thebasis of the coordinate values on the touch panel 311.

[0205] In a software construction at the computer side, as shown in FIG.36, there is an interface program for the copy machine 300 between anoperating system (OS) and an application program. In a case where theapplication program transfers the image data to be drawn on the imageplane to the OS, the interface program has a function to transfer thesame image data to the copy machine 300, and also has a function toinput the input operations such as the mouse input and the key input tothe application program as well as an event input from the OS.

[0206] When the copy machine 300 side receives the image displayed onthe computer, the copy machine 300 zooms the received image at apredetermined magnification such that the image can be displayed at asize suitable for the computer image plane display frame 1201. When theenlargement process, the reduction process or the scroll process isinstructed by the user, the copy machine 300 converts a base displayingform into a new displaying form and then performs the displaying on theimage plane display frame 1201. When the position within the computerimage plane display frame 1201 is depressed by the user, the copymachine 300 calculates a relative position with respect to the imagepresently displayed on the computer and notifies the calculated positionto the computer side. At the computer side, the interface program inputsthe shift event of mouse cursor to the application program on the basisof the notified coordinate position, to inform the user's operation sentfrom the copy machine 300. This operation is the same as that withrespect to a mouse crick.

[0207] It will be explained hereinafter a case where the operation iscontrolled by using a detachable storage medium such as a PC card, afloppy disk or the like.

[0208] In this case, when the connection is to be established with thecomputer, the PC card or the floppy disk of which contents havepreviously been set is used. When the remote key is depressed from theoperation key 312 in a state where the PC card or the floppy disk is notinserted, it is displayed on the LCD 309 a message for urging the userto insert the PC card or the floppy disk which acts as a key. Then, whenthe user inserts the PC card or the floppy disk, the CPU 301 confirmsthe insertion of the storage medium and then accesses the insertedmedium to fetch the computer information to be accesses. The computerinformation includes an address of the computer, as well as anidentification code, a password or the like of the user who owns the PCcard or the floppy disk. The copy machine 300 comes to be able toestablish the connection with the computer by using such theinformation. The information concerning the plurality of connectiondestinations can be stored in the same medium as the computerinformation. When the CPU 301 confirms the storing of the plurality ofconnection destination information, the CPU 301 provides to the user thelist of the connectable computers and requests the user to select theconnection destination from among the computers in the list.

[0209] On the other hand, the information concerning the computer maynot previously be stored in the PC card or the floppy disk, but only theuser's information such as the user's identification code, the passwordand the like may previously be stored in the PC card or the floppy disk.In this case, the PC card or the floppy disk is inserted into the copymachine 300, and then the copy machine 300 specifies the user on thebasis of the user's information. Thereafter, when the connection withthe computer can be established in the step S505 of FIG. 28 and the stepS1005 of FIG. 33, the computer information may be stored in the PC cardor the floppy disk in correspondence with the user's information.Further, by referring the past access information of the user in thecomputer selecting procedure shown in FIG. 37, the list of the computersfrom among the computers to which the user had accessed can be formed ina designated form, to be presented.

[0210] When, the connection destination is designated by the user orthere is essentially one connection destination, the CPU 301 intends toconnect with the computer via the external interface 318. When theconnection is established, the following procedure is the same as thatexplained above, so that the detailed explanation thereof is omitted.After the connection with the computer is established in the abovemanner, as explained above, the file in the computer is printed or thecomputer is operated by the copy machine 300.

[0211] Personal information of the computer and the user can be writteninto the PC card or the floppy disk used in the embodiment, in a mannerexplained as follows. That is, the user inserts the PC card or thefloppy disk into the computer which is ordinarily used by him, andwrites his own network connection password into the PC card or thefloppy disk by using a data writing program, so that the PC card or thefloppy disk to be used as the key in the copy machine 300 can be formed.

[0212] As the PC card or the floppy disk used in the embodiment, it canbe utilized any medium which can store the computer connectioninformation and is portable by the user. For example, a magnetic card,an IC card, an optical card can be utilized as the storage medium.Further, even a portable terminal can be utilized if an interfacespecifically used for the portable terminal is provided in the copymachine 300.

[0213] In a case where the computer is being accessed in the abovemanner, in addition to the previously-explained access releasing method,if the PC card 305 or the floppy disk 319 is released from the copymachine 300, the CPU 301 detects it and operates to release the accessto the computer.

[0214] According to the above-mentioned copy machine 300, the desiredcomputer can be accessed from the copy machine 300 side, and the imagedata of the file managed by the accessed computer can be fetched to beprinted out. Further, since the printing can be performed after thepreview operation, it can effectively be prevented that erroneous imagedata is printed out. Furthermore, since the accessing to the computer isallowed by inputting the password or inserting the storage mediumincluding the password, a user's secret can effectively be protected.Furthermore, the accessing to the computer can immediately be releasedby the user's instruction.

[0215] Further, even if the user forgets to instruct the releasing ofthe accessing, the accessing can automatically be released by means of apredetermined timer. Therefore, since it can effectively be preventedthat the computer accessing state is undesirably maintained due to theuser's error, the user's secret can effectively be protected.

[0216] Furthermore, since the infrared ray sensor detects that there isno user nearby the copy machine, the accessing can automatically bereleased.

[0217] Furthermore, in the case where the accessing to the computer isperformed by using the storage medium which stores the connectioninformation, since the storage medium can be considered as the key, theaccessing can be released by removing the storage medium (i.e., thekey), so that the user's secret can effectively be protected.

[0218] Furthermore, the operation can be performed by selecting eitherone of the slave mode and the master mode, if necessary.

[0219] Furthermore, since the original can be read in response to theinstruction from the copy machine 300 and then transferred, the readimage data can effectively be stored in the desired computer. In thiscase, the file name can be input in the desired computer in response tothe instruction from the copy machine 300.

[0220] Furthermore, the desired computer operation can be performed fromthe copy machine 300.

[0221] Furthermore, in the case where the desired computer is accessedfrom the copy machine 300 side, the user can easily select the computerwhich is often utilized by him, by providing to the user the list of thelimited computers which has been past accessed by the user.

[0222] Furthermore, in the case where the computer is accessed by usingthe storage medium which stores the user's information, the user caneasily select the computer by providing based on the user's informationin the storage medium to the user the list of the computers which are tobe exclusively accessed by such the user.

[0223] Furthermore, the data representing the program for controllingthe above-mentioned operations can be stored in the detachable storagemedium such as a magneto-optical disk or the like, and then the storeddata can be read to be applied to other controllable devices.

[0224] As explained in the foregoing, the present invention enablesefficient process in case of connecting a copying apparatus, a facsimileapparatus etc. to a network such as LAN and reading the image with ascanner.

[0225] In the foregoing description, the original image is read with thescanner of the copying apparatus or the facsimile apparatus, but it isnaturally possible to utilize a scanner not associated with the printerbut associated with an operation unit.

[0226] The present invention has been explained by the preferredembodiments thereof, but the present invention is not limited to suchembodiments and is subject to various modifications within the scope andspirit of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An image processing apparatus provided withreader means for reading an original image, connection means forconnection with a network to which plural computers are connected, andtransfer means for transferring the image data, read with said readermeans, to a computer through said connection means, comprising:specifying means for specifying desired one among the computersconnected through said connection means; and designation means fordesignating image reading by said reader means; wherein said transfermeans is adapted to transfer the image data, read by said reader meansin response to the designation by said designation means, to a computerspecified by said specifying means.
 2. An image processing apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising list display means fordisplaying a list of the computers connected through said connectionmeans and designation means for designating desired one among thecomputers displayed by said list display means; wherein said specifyingmeans is adapted to specify a desired computer by the designation withsaid designation means.
 3. An image processing apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said specifying means is adapted to specify a desiredcomputer by the input of a predetermined password.
 4. An imageprocessing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising settingmeans for setting a file name of the image data read by said readermeans.
 5. An image processing apparatus according to claim 1, furthercomprising readout means for reading the content of a detachable memorymedium storing information for specifying the desired computer by saidspecifying means; wherein said specifying means is adapted to specifythe desired computer by reading, when said memory medium is set, thecontent thereof with said readout means.
 6. An image processingapparatus according to claim 1, further comprising state display meansfor displaying that the access is being made to the computer specifiedby said specifying means.
 7. An image processing apparatus according toclaim 1, further comprising detection means for detecting whether anoperator is present or not and release means for releasing thecommunication with the computer specified by said specifying means,based on the detection by said detection means.
 8. An image processingapparatus according to claim 5, further comprising means for releasingthe communication with the computer specified by said specifying means,in case said memory medium is detached.
 9. An image processing apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising memory means for storing thehistory of transfer by said transfer means.
 10. An image processingapparatus comprising: reader means for reading an original image;interface means connectable to a local area network; LAN informationmemory means for storing information on the user or the client on saidlocal area network; designation means for designating a user or a clienton said local area network to which the image data read by said readermeans are to be transferred, based on the information stored in said LANinformation memory means; and image memory means for storing the imagedata read by said reader means in correlation with the user and/or theclient designated by said designation means.
 11. An image processingapparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: first receptionmeans for receiving information on the user and/or the client on saidlocal area network, at a predetermined interval from said user and/orclient; and first renewal means for renewing the information stored insaid LAN information memory means, based on the information received bysaid first reception means.
 12. An image processing apparatus accordingto claim 10, further comprising: second reception means for receivinginformation on the user and/or the client on said local area network,from said user and/or client, when a designating operation is initiatedby said designation means; and second renewal means for renewing theinformation stored in said LAN information memory means, based on theinformation received by said second reception means.
 13. An imageprocessing apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising:confirmation means for confirming whether the information on the userand/or the client designated by said designation means is renewed; thirdreception means for receiving information on the user and/or the client,from the user and/or client designated by said designation means, whenthe renewal of said information is confirmed by said confirmation means;and third renewal means for renewing the information stored in said LANinformation memory means, based on the information received by saidthird reception means.
 14. An image processing apparatus according toclaim 13, further comprising informing means for informing the renewal,in case the renewal of the information on the user and/or the client isconfirmed by said confirmation means.
 15. An image processing apparatusaccording to claim 10, further comprising: detection means for detectingthat the information on the user and/or the client on said local areanetwork is renewed; fourth reception means for receiving information onthe user and/or the client on said local area network, from said userand/or client, in case said detection means detects the renewal of theinformation on the user and/or the client; and fourth renewal means forrenewing the information stored in said LAN information memory means,based on the information received by said fourth reception means.
 16. Animage processing apparatus according to claim 15, wherein said fourthrenewal means is adapted to renew the information on the user and/or theclient, only for the user and/or the client for which the renewal of theinformation is detected by said detection means.
 17. An image readingapparatus provided with connection means for connection with a networkconsisting of plural external equipment, comprising: image reader meansfor entering an image as read image data; destination designation meansfor designating an external equipment as the destination of said enteredimage data, among said plural external equipment; output instructionmeans for instructing the output of said entered image data; and outputmeans for outputting said entered image data in discontinuous manner inplural packets, in response to said instruction, to said designatedexternal equipment.
 18. An image reading apparatus according to claim17, further comprising: area designation means for designating aspecified area in said image; wherein said output means is adapted torelease the image data corresponding to said designated area.
 19. Animage reading apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising: imageprocess mode designation means for designating an image process mode;and image process means for applying a predetermined image process tosaid entered image data, based on said designated image process mode;wherein said output means is adapted to release the image data subjectedto the image process.
 20. An image reading apparatus according to claim17, further comprising image forming means for forming an image based onsaid entered image data and copy process means for copying said formedimage; wherein said copy process means includes at least one of copyprocess mode designation means for designating the mode of copy processand also serving as at least either of said destination designationmeans and said output instruction means, copy area designation means fordesignating an image area relating to the copy process and also servingas said area designation means, and copy image process means forapplying a predetermined image process to the image data relating to thecopy process and also serving as said image process means.
 21. An imagereading apparatus according to claim 17, wherein said destinationdesignation means includes display means for displaying a list forrecognizing the external equipment connected to said network, and isadapted to designate the destination external equipment from saiddisplayed list.
 22. An image reading apparatus according to claim 17,wherein said destination designation means includes registration meansfor registering the external equipment in advance, and display means fordisplaying a list for recognizing the registered external equipment, andis adapted to designate the destination external equipment from saiddisplayed list.
 23. An image reading apparatus according to claim 17,wherein said external equipment has a function of managing the datafiles in groups, and said destination designation means includesdirectory designation means capable of designating a subdirectory ofsaid designated external equipment.
 24. An image reading apparatusaccording to claim 17, further comprising file format designation meansfor designating a file format, wherein said output means is adapted torelease said entered image data, after conversion into said designatedfile format.
 25. An image reading apparatus according to claim 17,further comprising additional storage means adapted to store saidentered image data and constructed separately from the storage meansemployed in the image input operation by said image reader means, theimage forming operation by said image forming means and the imagecopying operation by said copy process means; wherein said output meansis adapted to read and release the image data stored in said additionalstorage means.
 26. An image reading system composed of an image readingapparatus provided with image reader means for entering an image as readimage data, movement instruction means for instructing movement of saidentered image data, and movement means for moving said entered imagedata based on said instruction, and an image processing apparatusprovided with memory means for storing said moved image data andcommunication means for communication with an external equipment:wherein said image processing apparatus comprises transfer means fortransferring the image data, stored in said memory means, in response toa request from said external equipment, to the external equipmentrelating to said request.
 27. An image reading system composed of anetwork to which connected are an image reading apparatus provided withimage reader means for entering an image as read image data, movementinstruction means for instructing movement of said entered image data,and movement means for moving said entered image data based on saidinstruction, plural external equipment, and an image processingapparatus provided with memory means for storing said moved image data:wherein said image processing apparatus comprises transfer means fortransferring the image data, stored in said memory means, in response toa request from said plural external equipment, to the external equipmentrelating to said request.
 28. An image reading system according to claim26, wherein said memory means at least includes a first memory and anon-volatile second memory, wherein said moved image data are oncestored in said first memory and then moved to and stored in said secondnonvolatile memory.
 29. An image reading system according to claim 26,further comprising area designation means for designating a specifiedarea of said image, wherein said memory means is adapted to store theimage data corresponding to said designated area.
 30. An image readingsystem according to claim 26, further comprising image forming means forforming an image based on the image data entered by said image readermeans, and copy process means for copying said formed image, whereinsaid copy process means includes at least either of copy process modedesignation means for designating a copy process mode and serving alsoas said movement instruction means, and copy area designation means fordesignating an image area relating to the copy process and serving alsoas said area designation means.
 31. An image reading system according toclaim 26, wherein said memory means has a function of managing datafiles in groups, said image reading apparatus includes storagedestination designation means for designating a subdirectory and a filename in said memory means, and said memory means is adapted to store theimage data, moved from said image reading apparatus, in said designatedsubdirectory with said designated file name.
 32. An image reading systemaccording to claim 26, wherein said image reading apparatus includesfile format designation means for designating a file format, and saidmemory means is adapted to store the image data, moved from said imagereading apparatus, in said designated file format.
 33. An image readingsystem according to claim 26, wherein said image reading apparatusincludes image process mode designation means for designating an imageprocess mode, and image process means for applying a predetermined imageprocess to said entered image data, based on said designated imageprocess mode, and the image data subjected to said image process aremoved to said memory means.